Frozen Shoulder: Pain That Restricts – Solutions That Set You Free

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterised by inflammation and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule, causing restricted mobility and severe pain. In this condition, the joint capsule surrounding the shoulder joint tightens and contracts, restricting freedom of movement and causing stiffness. The pain often begins as mild discomfort, but gradually becomes more intense over time, especially during shoulder movement.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder Development

Frozen shoulder syndrome develops in three main phases, which involve different stages of pain and restricted mobility:

Stage 1: Freezing phase (or painful phase): At the beginning of the condition, shoulder pain is at its most intense and occurs mainly when the arm moves. This phase may last 2-9 months and is characterised by restricted movement due to pain. Patients often avoid shoulder movements, resulting in the joint becoming weaker.

Stage 2: Frozen phase (or stiffness phase): This phase is characterised by severe stiffness and restricted shoulder mobility, without the pain experienced during the first phase. Inflammation decreases, but adhesions of the joint capsule restrict movement. This phase may last 4-12 months.

Stage 3: Thawing phase (or recovery phase): In the final phase, mobility begins to improve, although the process may be slow. Pain decreases significantly and patients gradually begin to regain full shoulder movement. This phase may last 6-9 months or even longer, depending on the response to rehabilitation.

Frozen Shoulder: Symptoms

The main symptoms of frozen shoulder include:

1. Shoulder pain
2. Restricted mobility
3. A sensation of stiffness or tightness.
4. Shoulder tenderness

How It Affects Patients’ Daily Lives

Frozen shoulder can significantly affect patients’ daily lives, as most patients experience:

1. Difficulty with daily activities
2. Pain and discomfort during the night (night-time pain)
3. Reduced performance at work or during physical activity
4. Psychological burden
5. Social isolation and avoidance of activities

Frozen Shoulder: How Is It Treated?

The treatment of frozen shoulder focuses on relieving pain and restoring mobility. The main treatment methods include:

1. Medication: Anti-inflammatory medication is used to reduce pain and inflammation during the initial phase of the condition.
2. Physiotherapy: This includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve shoulder movement.
3. Injection therapy with corticosteroids or biological treatments
4. Surgery: If conservative treatment has not produced results, surgery may be required. Shoulder arthroscopy helps restore movement and remove adhesions, allowing immediate rehabilitation and a rapid return to daily life and activities.

Postoperative Instructions After Shoulder Arthroscopy

The postoperative instructions after shoulder arthroscopy are crucial for successful recovery and the prevention of complications. The main instructions include:

1. Rest and protection of the shoulder: Immediately after surgery, it is recommended that you rest the shoulder and avoid strenuous movements or lifting weights. The patient wears a sling for 48 hours.
2. Ice therapy: To reduce swelling and pain, apply ice to the shoulder area for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours during the first few days after surgery.
3. Medication: The doctor will prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the instructions for their use.
4. Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy begins immediately after arthroscopy. Stretching and strengthening exercises will help restore shoulder mobility and strength.
5. Wound care: Avoid getting the wound area wet or swimming until you receive approval from the doctor, as this may cause an infection.
6. Monitoring the incisions: Check the incisions for signs of infection (redness, swelling, increased warmth or fluid discharge). If you notice any of these symptoms, contact the doctor immediately.
7. Avoiding excessive loading of the shoulder: Avoid placing excessive load on the shoulder during the first few weeks.
8. Limiting daily activities: It is important to avoid heavy physical work, lifting weights or sports that require strenuous shoulder movements during the first few weeks.
9. Return to daily activities: The doctor will guide you regarding your return to normal activities, depending on the progress of your recovery.

Read also: How Shoulder Tendinitis Affects Athletes: Rehabilitation and Return to Sports, Shoulder Tendinitis: Symptoms and School Bag: What Should You Look Out For? More answers in the frequently asked questions.